🥇
Springfield Technical Community College
Springfield, MAPublic
$600
Tuition/yr
32%
Grad rate
73.9
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Massachusetts is home to MIT, Harvard, and a dense cluster of 61 CS programs feeding one of the country's strongest tech and biotech corridors
The Boston-Cambridge metro anchors a $128,640 median CS salary, driven by Google, Amazon, Meta, and HubSpot R&D offices alongside world-class research universities
Northeastern University ranks #1 for bachelor's CS with an 88.1 score and co-op placements at top employers
UMass Amherst follows at #2 with a 90% graduation rate and $16,591/yr in-state tuition, offering a strong public-school alternative
Bunker Hill Community College offers the most affordable CS pathway at just $576/yr in-state tuition
17 associate's programs statewide provide 2+2 transfer routes into UMass and other bachelor's programs
CS graduates in the Boston metro earn $141,504 median salary, the highest in the state and 24% above the national average
Cambridge ($135,072) and Worcester ($128,640) metros also pay well above national norms
10 fully online CS programs available, including options from established institutions
Online tuition can differ significantly from on-campus rates, making remote study viable for working professionals across the state
Top employers: Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, HubSpot, Wayfair, Toast, Akamai
Boston/Cambridge functions as a biotech and AI research hub, with MIT and Harvard anchoring major corporate R&D centers
Hakia Research 2026
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Massachusetts Computer Science programs
We rank 89 accredited computer science programs in Massachusetts using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Science Degree Programs in Massachusetts Worth It?
Answer
$128,640
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Massachusetts deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $128,640 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $30,679/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Massachusetts
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Massachusetts by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts
10
Programs ranked
$1,302
Avg tuition/yr
20%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts offers 17 accredited associate's degree programs in computer science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Bunker Hill Community Col..., Bristol Community College, Northern Essex Community ..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Massachusetts offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $5,393/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $70,752 in Massachusetts.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Massachusetts's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Boston, Cambridge, Worcester areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Amazon, Google, HubSpot hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer science schools in Massachusetts, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer science degrees in Massachusetts.
Show all 10 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Massachusetts Bay Community College | Wellesley Hills, MA | Public | $576 | 17% | 64.0 |
| #7 | North Shore Community College | Danvers, MA | Public | $600 | 18% | 63.6 |
| #8 | Cape Cod Community College | West Barnstable, MA | Public | $576 | 22% | 62.1 |
| #9 | Mount Wachusett Community College | Gardner, MA | Public | $600 | 24% | 62.1 |
| #10 | Quincy College | Quincy, MA | Public | $7,762 | 15% | 58.1 |
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts
34
Programs ranked
$47,040
Avg tuition/yr
74%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 46 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 11 public and 35 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Northeastern, U of Massachusetts-Amherst, Massachusetts Institute o..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Massachusetts computer science programs earn a median salary of $109,344, 11% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Boston, Cambridge, Worcester metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Amazon, Google, HubSpot.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $910 to $66,650 annually, with an average of $40,258/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 92%, with the highest reaching 100%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Massachusetts's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Massachusetts, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$61,990
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
95.5
Hakia Score
🥉
$66,670
Tuition/yr
89%
Grad rate
94.4
Hakia Score
#4
$69,146
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
94.1
Hakia Score
Show all 34 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Amherst, MA | Public | $17,006 | 83% | 91.5 |
| #7 | Williams College | Williamstown, MA | Private nonprofit | $68,240 | 94% | 91.4 |
| #8 | Amherst College | Amherst, MA | Private nonprofit | $69,820 | 94% | 91.0 |
| #9 | Brandeis University | Waltham, MA | Private nonprofit | $67,082 | 86% | 89.9 |
| #10 | Smith College | Northampton, MA | Private nonprofit | $64,870 | 89% | 89.9 |
| #11 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Worcester, MA | Private nonprofit | $59,700 | 90% | 88.7 |
| #12 | Mount Holyoke College | South Hadley, MA | Private nonprofit | $66,780 | 84% | 88.4 |
| #13 | College of the Holy Cross | Worcester, MA | Private nonprofit | $63,650 | 87% | 87.8 |
| #14 | Clark University | Worcester, MA | Private nonprofit | $57,440 | 77% | 86.5 |
| #15 | Endicott College | Beverly, MA | Private nonprofit | $39,750 | 76% | 81.3 |
| #16 | Stonehill College | Easton, MA | Private nonprofit | $55,750 | 76% | 80.9 |
| #17 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Lowell, MA | Public | $16,246 | 65% | 79.5 |
| #18 | Merrimack College | North Andover, MA | Private nonprofit | $49,352 | 70% | 79.5 |
| #19 | Wheaton College (Massachusetts) | Norton, MA | Private nonprofit | $63,240 | 73% | 79.3 |
| #20 | Sattler College | Boston, MA | Private nonprofit | — | 81% | 79.2 |
| #21 | Gordon College | Wenham, MA | Private nonprofit | $29,500 | 69% | 78.5 |
| #22 | Wentworth Institute of Technology | Boston, MA | Private nonprofit | $41,984 | 68% | 73.8 |
| #23 | Assumption University | Worcester, MA | Private nonprofit | $50,494 | 75% | 73.6 |
| #24 | Suffolk University | Boston, MA | Private nonprofit | $46,954 | 61% | 73.0 |
| #25 | Western New England University | Springfield, MA | Private nonprofit | $44,680 | 64% | 72.8 |
| #26 | University of Massachusetts-Boston | Boston, MA | Public | $15,278 | 49% | 71.5 |
| #27 | Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater, MA | Public | $910 | 53% | 70.9 |
| #28 | College of Our Lady of the Elms | Chicopee, MA | Private nonprofit | $41,300 | 68% | 70.9 |
| #29 | Westfield State University | Westfield, MA | Public | $970 | 54% | 70.8 |
| #30 | Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg, MA | Public | $970 | 55% | 69.4 |
| #31 | Hampshire College | Amherst, MA | Private nonprofit | $57,158 | 54% | 65.7 |
| #32 | Bard College at Simon's Rock | Great Barrington, MA | Private nonprofit | $65,616 | 68% | 63.1 |
| #33 | Curry College | Milton, MA | Private nonprofit | $45,370 | 51% | 62.6 |
| #34 | Eastern Nazarene College | Quincy, MA | Private nonprofit | $28,444 | 39% | 57.0 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts
14
Programs ranked
$41,452
Avg tuition/yr
77%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts offers 16 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Northeastern, U of Massachusetts-Amherst, Massachusetts Institute o..., combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $128,640, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Boston, Cambridge, Worcester creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Amazon, Google, HubSpot actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $39,691/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Massachusetts's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$61,990
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
93.1
Hakia Score
🥉
$66,670
Tuition/yr
89%
Grad rate
92.6
Hakia Score
#4
$69,146
Tuition/yr
94%
Grad rate
90.6
Hakia Score
#5
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MAPublic
Jazz & African-American Music Studies program at UMass Amherst$17,006
Tuition/yr
83%
Grad rate
87.7
Hakia Score
Show all 14 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Brandeis University | Waltham, MA | Private nonprofit | $67,082 | 86% | 85.0 |
| #7 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Worcester, MA | Private nonprofit | $59,700 | 90% | 83.8 |
| #8 | Clark University | Worcester, MA | Private nonprofit | $57,440 | 77% | 83.3 |
| #9 | Merrimack College | North Andover, MA | Private nonprofit | $49,352 | 70% | 75.9 |
| #10 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Lowell, MA | Public | $16,246 | 65% | 75.5 |
| #11 | Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg, MA | Public | $970 | 55% | 68.8 |
| #12 | University of Massachusetts-Boston | Boston, MA | Public | $15,278 | 49% | 67.9 |
| #13 | Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater, MA | Public | $910 | 53% | 66.5 |
| #14 | Wentworth Institute of Technology | Boston, MA | Private nonprofit | $41,984 | 68% | 66.4 |
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts
9
Programs ranked
$47,741
Avg tuition/yr
83%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Massachusetts is home to 10 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Massachusetts Institute o..., U of Massachusetts-Amherst, Northeastern are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Massachusetts PhD holders earning a median of $160,800, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Boston, Cambridge, Worcester region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Amazon, Google, HubSpot.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Massachusetts programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in Massachusetts, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MAPrivate nonprofit
$61,990
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad rate
92.0
Hakia Score
Show all 9 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Brandeis University | Waltham, MA | Private nonprofit | $67,082 | 86% | 78.0 |
| #7 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Worcester, MA | Private nonprofit | $59,700 | 90% | 77.3 |
| #8 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Lowell, MA | Public | $16,246 | 65% | 66.0 |
| #9 | University of Massachusetts-Boston | Boston, MA | Public | $15,278 | 49% | 58.8 |
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Massachusetts
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $30,679/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $76,698/year |
| Community college tuition | $7,670/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $184,076 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $46,018 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Massachusetts
State Aid Programs
Massachusetts offers strong state-funded financial aid programs that make CS education accessible.
The flagship program is MASSGrant, providing need-based financial assistance to undergraduate students who reside in Massachusetts and attend Massachusetts colleges (MASSGrant). Eligibility requires demonstrated financial need via FAFSA, enrollment in an approved degree program, and satisfactory academic progress. MASSGrant can cover a significant portion of tuition costs. Additionally, MASSGrant Plus covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees for income-eligible students at community colleges and full-time students at state universities and UMass campuses. Starting Fall 2025, tuition and mandatory fees at all UMass campuses will be fully covered for undergraduate students from households earning $75,000 or less (Mass.gov).
Key Programs & Amounts
Key Massachusetts state aid programs and 2025-2026 updates:
- MASSGrant: Need-based aid for eligible students at public and private institutions
- MASSGrant Plus: Covers remaining tuition/fees for Pell-eligible students at public institutions
- MASSGrant Plus Expansion (New!): Now includes middle-income students with family AGI between $73,000-$100,000, reducing costs by up to 50% of tuition and fees
- Gilbert Matching Grant: State matches private college institutional aid for eligible students
- MASFA: Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid for students ineligible for FAFSA, including DACA recipients and undocumented students (enabled by 2023 Tuition Equity Law)
- Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 maximum for 2024-25 academic year (apply via FAFSA at studentaid.gov) These programs can be combined, a low-income student at UMass might receive MASSGrant, MASSGrant Plus, Pell Grant, and institutional aid covering nearly all expenses. Priority FAFSA deadline is May 1st for state aid consideration (Mass.gov Financial Aid).
Institutional Scholarships
Institutional scholarships at Massachusetts schools are substantial.
MIT meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, families earning under $75,000 pay nothing for tuition, room, and board. Harvard similarly meets full need. Private universities like Northeastern, BU, and Tufts offer significant merit and need-based aid packages. CS-specific scholarships are available through professional organizations like ACM and IEEE Computer Society. Corporate sponsors including Google (Lime Scholarship), Microsoft, and local companies fund computing scholarships at partner universities. The Terry Foundation provides full-ride scholarships to exceptional students at Massachusetts public universities. Apply early, many schools have priority scholarship deadlines in November-December, well before regular admission deadlines. Complete the FAFSA as early as possible (opens October 1) to maximize aid eligibility. Boston's Tuition-Free Community College (TFCC) Plan provides additional support for eligible Boston residents attending partner community colleges (Boston.gov).
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Massachusetts
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Massachusetts. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$100,000
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Boston, MA)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Massachusetts metro areas
Boston$142K
Cambridge$135K
Worcester$129K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Boston | $142K |
| Cambridge | $135K |
| Worcester | $129K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Massachusetts
Find computer science jobs in Massachusetts. These major employers across Massachusetts metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Boston/Cambridge
MABoston/Cambridge is a biotech and AI research hub, anchored by MIT, Harvard, and major tech company R&D centers.
Nearby cities: Cambridge, Somerville, Waltham, Burlington, Quincy
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Massachusetts
State Transfer System
Massachusetts has one of the nation's most comprehensive transfer systems through MassTransfer.
This statewide agreement provides smooth pathways for community college students to transfer to all 4 UMass campuses, 9 state universities, MassArt, and Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MassTransfer). The MassTransfer Block is a 34-credit general education foundation that satisfies all general education requirements at any public four-year institution in Massachusetts. Students who complete the block with a 2.0 GPA or higher receive guaranteed credit transfer. Those with a 2.5 GPA receive guaranteed admission to state universities and UMass campuses. Students with a 3.0 GPA also receive a tuition credit reducing costs by 8-11%.
How Transfers Work
A2B (Associate to Bachelor's) Mapped Pathways provide course-by-course articulation for popular majors including computer science. These pathways guarantee that specific community college courses count directly toward bachelor's degree requirements at receiving institutions, eliminating the credit loss that plagues transfer students nationally. Completing an associate degree before transferring through A2B pathways saves an average of 28% on total bachelor's degree costs (MassTransfer A2B). The Commonwealth Commitment program offers additional savings: students who sign up before completing 15 credits, maintain full-time enrollment and a 3.0 GPA, and graduate from community college before transferring receive 10% tuition rebates and frozen tuition rates at their four-year institution.
Transfer Planning Tips
Strategic transfer planning for CS students in Massachusetts:
- 1Complete foundational coursework: Finish calculus (through Calc II minimum), discrete mathematics, introductory programming (Python and/or Java), data structures, and computer organization at community college
- 2Target the MassTransfer Block: Complete all 34 credits for maximum flexibility and guaranteed transfer
- 3Maintain strong GPA: Target 3.0+ for tuition benefits and 3.5+ for competitive programs like UMass Amherst CICS
- 4Consider Commonwealth Commitment: Sign up within first 15 credits for maximum savings
- 5Apply by priority deadlines: February-March for fall admission at most institutions Bunker Hill Community College, the state's largest, offers a dedicated Computer Science Transfer Option associate degree designed for seamless transfer to UMass campuses (BHCC CS). Students who complete their first two years at community college save $20,000-$40,000 compared to starting at a four-year institution while maintaining clear pathways to top programs.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Massachusetts?
Industry & Workforce
Massachusetts is home to the world's most prestigious computer science programs at MIT and Harvard, alongside a constellation of elite universities including Northeastern, Tufts, Boston University, and UMass Amherst. The state hosts 7 ABET-accredited computer science programs, including MIT, Harvard, BU, Northeastern, WPI, UMass Amherst, and Tufts, ensuring graduates meet rigorous national standards for computing education (ABET). With 15 community colleges offering transfer pathways through MassTransfer, computer science education is accessible from any starting point (mass.edu). The concentration of research institutions creates opportunities for undergraduate research, industry collaboration, and career networking.
Salary Outlook
The salary outlook in Massachusetts is exceptional.
Software developers in the Boston-Cambridge metro area earn a median salary of $165,513 according to Glassdoor, with the 75th percentile reaching $204,555 (Glassdoor Boston 2025). Levels.fyi reports average total compensation ranging from $125,000 to $220,000 at major tech companies in the Greater Boston area, with stock and bonus pushing senior roles significantly higher (Levels.fyi). According to CompTIA, Massachusetts tech workers make up 11.5% of the overall workforce, one of the highest concentrations nationally, with over 2,000 software companies and 140 cybersecurity firms operating statewide (CompTIA State of Tech Workforce 2025).
Regional Tech Hubs
The Boston-Cambridge corridor offers unique specializations unavailable elsewhere: Kendall Square, dubbed 'the most innovative square mile on the planet', hosts over 150 technology companies alongside MIT and Harvard. The biotech corridor, anchored by Moderna, Biogen, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals, creates exceptional opportunities for computational biology and bioinformatics. Route 128, America's original tech corridor, continues to evolve with advanced manufacturing, robotics, and defense technology at companies like Raytheon, Draper Laboratory, and MIT Lincoln Lab. The financial technology sector thrives with Fidelity Investments headquartered in Boston. Compare programs in New York, California, or explore our national computer science rankings.
Computer Science Job Growth in Massachusetts
15%
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for computer science occupations in Massachusetts through 2024-2034. The median salary stands at $128,640 with 61 accredited programs statewide.
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Massachusetts
Employment Outlook
Massachusetts offers exceptional job prospects for CS graduates with premium compensation.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports software developers in Massachusetts earn a median annual salary of $142,000, approximately 7% above the national median of $133,080 (BLS OEWS May 2024). CompTIA's State of Tech Workforce 2025 report shows Massachusetts has a tech workforce of approximately 280,000 professionals, with tech employment growing 11,500 net new jobs in the most recent reporting period. The state ranks among the top five nationally for tech employment concentration, with more than 20% of the Massachusetts economy coming from the information technology sector (CompTIA).
Salaries by Metro
Salaries vary significantly by location and company type within Massachusetts:
- Cambridge/Kendall Square: $160,000-$200,000+ median for software engineers at top tech companies. Google is investing $75 million to expand its Kendall Square workforce to 5,000 employees (Built In Boston).
- Boston Seaport/Financial District: $150,000-$180,000 for fintech and enterprise software roles at companies like Fidelity, State Street, and John Hancock.
- Route 128 Corridor: $130,000-$160,000 for defense tech, robotics, and advanced manufacturing at Raytheon (217+ MA positions), Draper Laboratory, and BAE Systems.
- Worcester: $110,000-$140,000 with lower cost of living and strong opportunities at WPI and regional tech employers. Entry-level positions start around $90,000-$110,000 in the Boston area, with mid-career professionals earning $140,000-$180,000 and senior engineers commanding $200,000+ with total compensation including stock (Glassdoor, Levels.fyi).
High-Growth Sectors
High-growth sectors shaping Massachusetts's tech future include: biotech/computational biology (driven by the Kendall Square cluster with 1,000+ life science companies), artificial intelligence and machine learning (MIT's AI Lab heritage continues with companies like DataRobot and Kensho), cybersecurity (140+ firms including Carbon Black, now part of VMware, and Rapid7), and healthcare technology (Partners HealthCare, Athenahealth). The defense technology sector remains strong with NSA's presence and major contracts flowing to Massachusetts companies. Remote work has expanded opportunities, though Boston's premium salaries require local cost-of-living consideration. For related career paths, explore our AI degree programs, data science rankings, or cybersecurity rankings.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Massachusetts$83,616$186,528
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts
Online Programs
10 available in Massachusetts
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$27,611/yr$30,679/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New Hampshire
- Total Programs
- 21
- Median Tuition
- $15,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Vermont
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $46,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Connecticut
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $44,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Rhode Island
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $27,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Computer Science Degree Programs in Massachusetts: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Massachusetts?
The best computer science degree programs in Massachusetts based on our methodology are: 1) Northeastern University (highly ranked), 2) University of Massachusetts-Amherst, and 3) Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Massachusetts offers 61 total accredited programs across 26 public and 35 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 46 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Massachusetts?
Computer Science degree program costs in Massachusetts vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $30,679/year, while private institutions average $67,494/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $7,670/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $122,716 at public schools to $269,975 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in Massachusetts?
Computer Science professionals in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $128,640, which is 11% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $83,616, while senior roles exceed $186,528. Salaries vary by metro area: Boston ($141,504), Cambridge ($135,072) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer science degree programs in Massachusetts?
Yes, Massachusetts offers 10 accredited online Computer Science programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Merrimack College and Western New England University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in Massachusetts?
Major Computer Science employers in Massachusetts include Amazon, Google, HubSpot, Wayfair, Toast. The Boston and Cambridge metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Massachusetts universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Massachusetts's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Massachusetts?
A computer science degree program in Massachusetts offers strong ROI with a $128,640 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $30,679/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($145,363), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer science degree programs take in Massachusetts?
Standard completion times for computer science degree programs in Massachusetts are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Massachusetts community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Massachusetts university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts computer science degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Massachusetts state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Massachusetts's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Massachusetts salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.